Do you hear a persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound that no one else can? You’re not alone. Tinnitus, the perception of sound without an external source, affects millions of people globally. For many, it’s a mild annoyance, but for others, it can significantly interfere with daily life, work, and emotional well-being.
At Total Hearing Centre, we know the challenges tinnitus brings. That’s why we’re here to help you understand the condition better. By uncovering its causes, symptoms, and management solutions, you’ll gain the knowledge you need to take control of tinnitus and improve your quality of life.
Read on to learn what tinnitus is, what causes it, and how Total Hearing Centre can help you find relief.
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the sensation of hearing sounds that aren’t present in your external environment. These sounds are often described as ringing, buzzing, hissing, clicking, or roaring. While most people experience tinnitus temporarily (like after attending a loud concert), some live with it persistently.
It’s a surprisingly common condition—scientific studies estimate that 15–20% of adults experience tinnitus to some degree, with prevalence increasing as people age. Every experience with tinnitus is unique, from the sounds heard to how significantly it affects daily life.
What Causes Tinnitus?
Tinnitus doesn’t have a single cause; it’s often a symptom of an underlying issue. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Noise-induced hearing loss: Prolonged exposure to loud sounds, like concerts, construction noise, or headphones, can damage your inner ear, leading to tinnitus.
- Age-related hearing decline: As we age, our auditory system wears down, which often triggers tinnitus.
- Medical conditions: Ear infections, Meniere’s disease, high blood pressure, and even jaw issues (TMJ) can result in tinnitus.
- Certain medications: Some medications, known as ototoxic drugs, can cause or worsen tinnitus. These include specific antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and chemotherapy drugs.
By protecting your ears from loud noises and maintaining ear health, you can reduce your risk of developing tinnitus.
Recognizing Tinnitus Symptoms
Tinnitus isn’t just “ringing in the ears.” Its symptoms vary widely and can affect people differently. Common symptoms include hearing sounds like ringing, buzzing, roaring, clicking, or hissing, which may fluctuate in intensity or occur constantly.
This constant sound can impact more than your ears. Many tinnitus sufferers report difficulty falling asleep, concentrating, or completing tasks. For some, the condition contributes to stress, anxiety, or even depression. Understanding your symptoms is a critical step in finding relief.
How is Tinnitus Diagnosed?
If you think you might have tinnitus, the first step is getting a proper diagnosis. At Total Hearing Centre, we follow a thorough diagnostic process to pinpoint the severity and causes of your tinnitus. Here’s what to expect:
Medical History Review
We’ll discuss your health and hearing history, including possible noise exposure, medical conditions, or medications that may be contributing to your tinnitus.
Physical Examination
A physical exam checks for underlying issues in your ears, neck, or jaw that could cause or worsen tinnitus.
Our hearing experts will perform audiometry and other assessments to evaluate your hearing levels and pinpoint tinnitus triggers.
By diagnosing the root cause of your tinnitus, we can customize an effective treatment plan that works for you.
Treatment and Management Options
While tinnitus doesn’t yet have a complete cure, there are numerous ways to manage the symptoms effectively—and in many cases, restore balance to your daily life. Here are some of the most impactful solutions we recommend at Total Hearing Centre.
1. Hearing Aids
For anyone with hearing loss, hearing aids can be life-changing. Many modern devices are equipped with tinnitus-masking features, using soothing background noise to minimize the perception of tinnitus.
2. Sound Therapy
Sound therapy uses white noise machines, smartphone apps, or nature-inspired sounds to mask tinnitus and create a more peaceful auditory environment.
3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Tinnitus can take an emotional toll. Counseling or CBT can help you reshape the way you react to tinnitus, reducing stress and improving overall mental well-being.
4. Medication Options
Though not a long-term solution, certain medications may be prescribed to manage tinnitus-related anxiety or depression under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
With the right combination of treatments, many people are able to take control of their tinnitus and reduce its impact significantly.
How Total Hearing Centre Can Help
At Total Hearing Centre, we understand how disruptive tinnitus can be—and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Here’s how we help our patients find relief:
- Personalized assessments tailored to your specific symptoms and hearing needs.
- Custom-fit hearing aids, including models designed specifically for tinnitus relief.
- Access to cutting-edge sound therapy technologies and expert advice on implementing them in your daily life.
- Compassionate, knowledgeable audiologists who listen to your concerns and create practical, sustainable solutions.
We don’t just treat tinnitus; we treat you as a whole person, offering the care and expertise needed to improve your quality of life.Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services, ask any questions, or get the support you need. We’re here to help!
